The PEER Science Participants' Conference was aimed at facilitating networking among current PEER Science PIs based in Asia, to help them build productive linkages not only with their research colleagues but also with representatives from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). In addition, the conference was designed to promote capacity building by providing training in various non-research skills such as writing proposals, identifying and approaching potential funders, preparing and presenting research results to both technical and non-technical audiences, and reaching out to government agencies and non-governmental organizations to provide input on science-related policy issues.

Besides our program’s Asia-based PIs and co-PIs, participants included guest speakers on the topics listed above, a few selected U.S. partners, representatives from our sponsors at USAID and program partners at the National Science Foundation, and program staff from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS). The final version of the agenda is attached here.

The conference was held in Bangkok, Thailand, at USAID’s Asia Regional Training Center, which is very conveniently located in the same high-rise building as the Plaza Athenée Hotel, where most participants stayed, and only a five-minute walk from the Conrad Hotel, where a few guests were placed. One PI from the lead institution on each Asia-based PEER Science project and one co-PI from each institution receiving funds directly from the program were invited to participate in this conference, with the cost of airfare for those traveling from out of town, hotel accommodations, and most meals during the event paid directly by our program. Participants were given a stipend to cover the cost of meals not already being provided, local airport transfers, visa fees (if necessary), and travel medical insurance.

Participants in each project were expected to prepare a poster summarizing their research, including progress made and development impacts. They also prepared short PowerPoint presentations to go along with brief "flash talks" summarizing their research.

For the agenda, links to presentations made by guest speakers, participant biosketches and contact information, and background information on the posters and flash talks, please click the links below: